An early look at the Falcons’ three-deep depth chart
Dominique Franks is projected win the return duties in the three-deep depth chart. (Associated Press/ Sue Ogrocki)
BIRDLAND – Falcons head coach Mike Smith is not going to release an “official” 2010 depth chart until training camp according to the team’s website.
But now that most of the major offseason moves have been made, we’ll set up the template for them.
Rookies aren’t handed anything in this early depth chart, except for rookie returner Dominique Franks, he was projected to win the kickoff and punt return jobs.
Sean Weatherspoon, the first round draft pick, is listed No.2 behind both Mike Peterson and Stephen Nicholas.
Here’s what’s in my notebook as the three-deep depth chart that I’ll take out to mini-camp next week:
THREE DEPTH CHART
OFFNESE
QB – 1. Matt Ryan, 2. Chris Redman, 3. John Parker Wilson.
Others: D.J. Shockley.
RB – 1. Michael Turner, 2. Jerious Norwood, 3. Jason Snelling.
Others: Antone Smith and Dimitri Nance.
FB - 1. Ovie Mughelli. 2. Jason Snelling, 3. Dan Klecko.
WR – 1. Roddy White, 2. Brian Finneran, 3. Kerry Meier
WR – 1. Michael Jenkins, 2. Harry Douglas, 3. Eric Weems
Others: Ryan Wolfe, Troy Bergeron, Tim Buckley, Brandyn Harvey and Andy Strickland.
TE – 1. Tony Gonzalez, 2. Justin Peelle, 3. Keith Zinger
Others: Leroy Banks, Colin Peek and Michael Palmer
LT – 1. Sam Baker, 2. Will Svitek, 3. Blake Schlueter
LG – 1. Justin Blalock, 2. Mike Johnson, Rob Bruggemann
C – 1. Todd McClure, 2. Brett Romberg, 3. Joe Hawley
RG – 1. Harvey Dahl, 2. Quinn Ojinnaka, 3. Jose Valdez
RT – 1. Tyson Clabo, 2. Garrett Reynolds, Blake Schlueter.
DEFENSE
RDE – 1. John Abraham, 2. Lawrence Sidbury, 3. Emmanuel Stephens
DT – 1. John Babineaux, 2. Vance Walker, 3. Thomas Johnson
DT – 1. Peria Jerry, 2. Corey Peters, 3. Trey Lewis
LDE – 1. Kroy Biermann, 2. Chauncey Davis, 3. Jamaal Anderson
Other: Dan Klecko, DT; Rajon Henley, DE; Trey Bryant, DT.
WLB – 1. Michael Peterson, 2. Sean Weatherspoon, 3. Spencer Adkins
MLB – 1. Curtis Lofton, 2. Coy Wire, 3. Bear Woods
SLB – 1. Stephen Nicholas, 2. Sean Weatherspoon, 3. Robert James
Others: Weston Johnson.
RCB – 1. Brian Williams, 2. Brent Grimes, 3. Chevis Jackson
FS - 1. Thomas DeCoud, 2. Matt Giordano, 3. Rafael Bush
SS – 1. Erik Coleman, 2. Williams Moore, 3. Shann Schillinger
LCB – 1. Dunta Robinson 2. Chris Owens, 3. Dominique Franks
Others: Dominique Daniels, CB; Gabe Derricks, S.
SPECIALS
KR – 1. Dominique Franks, 2. Eric Weems, 3. Harry Douglas
PR –- 1. Dominique Franks, 2. Eric Weems, 3. Harry Douglas
P – 1. Michael Koenen, 2. Matt Bryant, 3. Steve Hauschka.
PK – 1. Matt Bryant, 2. Steve Hauschka, 3. Garrett Lindholm.
LS – 1. Joe Zelenka, 2. Justin Drescher.
Any other projections? Will Spoon win the weakside or strongside spots? Who’s the odd linebacker out, Peterson or Nicholas?
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128 comments Add your comment
Frank
April 30th, 2010
7:18 am
Go Falcons!!!
Scott Case
April 30th, 2010
7:31 am
Looks like a Super Bowl bound team! Go birds!
RGO67
April 30th, 2010
7:46 am
Are you ready for some FOOTBALL!
NFL News and Notes – April 30, 2010 | The Other 31
April 30th, 2010
7:50 am
[...] D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution looks at the Atlanta Falcons three-deep depth chart. [...]
Falcon057
April 30th, 2010
7:53 am
Should you change FS and SS? Also you may want to check name on new Kicker Garrett Lindholm, not Matt. FYI
Broken wings?
April 30th, 2010
7:56 am
D Led,
How are the guys that were injured last year progressing?
(I have not been hearing much about Moore)
collegedude
April 30th, 2010
8:05 am
I love the new Falcons Nation Charity Organization (FNCO). This is an organization who is working with the Falcons to promote fan involvement in charitable events that are directly related to charities that players, staff, and former players support. The FNCO has an event that is open to everyone on May 11th called Lunch with Legends. For only $40, this lunch will feature former Falcons Jessie Tuggle, Jeff Van Note, and Buddy Curry, who will have a Q&A session with all fans in attendance and raise money for the Kids and Pros (www.kidsandpros.com) organization founded by Buddy Curry to support youth sports in Georgia communities. It’s a great opportunity for Falcon fans to get involved and also meet these Falcons greats. In addition, there will be a silent auction at the luncheon, some of the items for bid: A Gameday experience with Freddie Falcon, you and a guest will be Freddie’s special guests for a home game this year, and this will include sideline passes for the game. A round of golf (you and 2 guests) with either Buddy Curry or Jessie Tuggle. Autographed items from current Falcon players will be available for auction as well as other items. For more information, see http://www.falconnationcharities.org
The Real Falcon
April 30th, 2010
8:14 am
We will still have to rely on Redman as a backup. That’s still scary.
mountain_jim
April 30th, 2010
8:22 am
Does not look good for Busterson (J Anderson).
tnfalcon
April 30th, 2010
8:23 am
Who will be the third string QB?
Tweets that mention An early look at the Falcons’ three-deep depth chart | Atlanta Falcons -- Topsy.com
April 30th, 2010
8:27 am
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by ATLHOMER, D. Orlando Ledbetter. D. Orlando Ledbetter said: An early look at the Falcons’ three-deep depth chart http://bit.ly/dif3Gg [...]
Craig
April 30th, 2010
8:28 am
I feel better IF we have a healthy B.Williams in the secondary. The D line will be an interesting battle in camp.
tnfalcon
April 30th, 2010
8:32 am
By the end of the season Spoon will start at WLB.
Mr. Phil
April 30th, 2010
8:33 am
Who are JasCon Snelling and Williams Moore. (Sorry DOL. Can’t let anything pass. ) Is Franks really that much of an upgrade over Weems as a return man? I don’t think we should bother playing Spoon strongside, knowing he is the long term solution at the WIl. Either he beats out Peterson and starts weakside or backs it up. Don’t put him in a position that goes away from his strength. Now if we want to move Peterson at the SLB spot and Spoon at the WLB, that is something different. Then the question is which spot is Peterson better in.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
April 30th, 2010
8:36 am
Falcons07 — thx!
Broken Wings? – Douglas, Jerry and Williams are still rehabbing. Moore is ready to go. He’ll participate in the mini-camp.
tnfalcon — Looks like J.P. Wilson unless D.J. Shockley can unseat him.
naganole
April 30th, 2010
8:42 am
William Moore will take the SS starting job by the end of preseason. I think it’ll be mid season before Spoon takes the WOLB spot from Peterson…
alanfalcon
April 30th, 2010
8:53 am
Good depth to work from, expierence and heads up players-Look out for this team.
GO FALCONS AND GO SOUTHERN RUSH. !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yoda
April 30th, 2010
8:58 am
Yikes……D looks awful…kinda like last years
hawesg
April 30th, 2010
8:58 am
I have little confidence that Moore will be physically able to play 16 games. Same goes for Sam Baker.
They should be looking to the FA Remainder Bin for guys like Gandy and Sharper to provide the depth and leadership the team needs for a long season.
Smyrna Jacket
April 30th, 2010
9:01 am
Move Babineaux to DE, cut JA98, get rid of the arena league unis = championship.
dean
April 30th, 2010
9:04 am
I always like it when I see a name on both sides of line: Dan Klecko. Hope he’s as tough as his daddy.
tp
April 30th, 2010
9:04 am
Peterson will switch over to the SLB so Weatherspoon can play the WLB. Nicholas will backup Peterson and perhaps play a utility pass-rusher role (in a 3-4 look during obvious passing downs). Nicholas seems to be at his best when he’s stuffing a running lane or rushing the passer – definitely not in coverage. Hence, the Weatherspoon pick!
SirReal
April 30th, 2010
9:07 am
WOW D.Led..I couldnt help but notice Jamaal Anderson WAY in the cellar.lol Yeah, I dont see Shockley unseating Wilson unfortunately…the guy just had a bad deal all around. He got snowed last year. The 5th stringers didnt help him out at all. With Douglas coming off an injury, I see why he’s so low but that could change once he’s healthy. If I had to have my starters on paper RIGHT NOW, not thinking of injuries, they’d look like this. Let me know what you think gang: OFFENSE: QB-Ryan (This is his year to turn the corner or we’ll know what we really have in him. I think he bounces back this year.) RB- Turner AND Snelling (Forget the thunder and lightning. Pound and pound some more!lol) WR- 1.White. (he’s earned it) 2)Douglas if healthy 3) Finn and Jenkins battle for the slot 4) I like the Meier kid. Him or Weems here. TE-Gonzales hands down. OL-Same except I pull Baker. His arms are too short and he cant handle top pass rushers. I give his job to Svitek while I groom Johnson. DEFENSE DEs- Abe and Beirmann/Davis DTs Babineuax, Jerry, and Anderson (the guy is stout against the run)LBs Lofton in middle, Peterson/Spoon on weakside, and keep Nicholas on strong side. CBs-Williams and Robinson S-Decoud (lil man can HIT.lol) and as much as I like Coleman, I’d like to see what Moore can do. He was the real deal at Mizz. Well, thats mine.
Rock
April 30th, 2010
9:13 am
Hawley can long snap.
1eyedJack
April 30th, 2010
9:17 am
Michael Koenen is your back up PK.
Rev Blake
April 30th, 2010
9:26 am
I like what I’m seeing here. Weatherspoon will start by the beginning of the season. The real question of course is whether or not the starting group stay healthy. Baker and Jerry are question marks in that area. Hope they don’t prove to be injury prone – this year will will tell. I think the depth is good. It will be very interesting to see the final starting defensive ends.
blord
April 30th, 2010
9:30 am
DOL,
2 things.
First have you heard anything about Moore being lazy or possibly depressed and not careing much about football at this point? Is that a concern? I just ask because some spankers were talking about this on another website and I figured I might ask someone who might acutally know.
Second, Shouldn’t the Beer-man be listed under punters as well:)
D. Orlando Ledbetter
April 30th, 2010
9:30 am
Rock — They didn’t draft him to long snap. But he can shot gun snap, too.
SirReal — Baker appears to be the only disagreement. I’m not ready to give up on him. Moore will have to show a lot to get Coleman off the field.
1eyedJack — The kicking competition should be good.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
April 30th, 2010
9:35 am
Blord — I was hearing some that early this offseason. I checked it out and there was no validity to it. Moore is cleared and ready to go. He’s been working really hard in the film room to get ready. He’s set to make a really big push. At Mizzou, he was a stand up guy. In retrospect, he should have came out as a Junior and would have been a Top10 pick. He got hurt early in his senior year and played on a bad wheel instead of getting healthy. That lingered into last season and Falcons shut him down in order to get him healthy.
Hamp
April 30th, 2010
9:37 am
I like it except I think Jamal Anderson will turn out to be a good DT. I say move him permanantley to DT. He plays the run really well and with at least playing DE has learned to rush, so that experience no matter how bad some think it is will help him at DT. Dude could be a protypical DT with a little weight.
blord
April 30th, 2010
9:38 am
Thanks. That is good to know. I am excited to she him hit the field and that was a good move by the organization I think. I appreciate the insight.
Dan Jones
April 30th, 2010
9:40 am
I’m surprised Dominique Franks has already won the starting Kick Returner and Punt Returner jobs away from Eric Weems. I didn’t think Weems was that bad in those roles last year.
Terrell
April 30th, 2010
9:41 am
Smyrna Jacket
Babs can’t play DE. We tried that early on in his career and he wasn’t effective.
ugaclassof2004
April 30th, 2010
9:46 am
The Real Falcon
What’s wrong with Redmon? Yeah he went 1-2 as a backup and had an awful game against the Eagles. But he came off the bench when Ryan got hurt and led Atlanta to a come from behind victory over Tampa Bay and almost beat the Saints at home. I wouldn’t want the guy as my starting QB, but the team can win with him as a backup as long as they don’t expect him to carry the entire offense.
SirReal
April 30th, 2010
9:54 am
You’re right about Moore. He will have to b/c Coleman is VERY solid and he adds the veteran presence in the secondary. But Baker…I used to be very high on him until he kept getting hurt and his play slipped. I just think there are better LTs out there. Thats for your input! Have a great one D.Led!
SOUTH GA DAWG FAN
April 30th, 2010
9:54 am
any news yet on Bab’s legal trouble’s. How many games do you think he may be suspended for ? I know the commish is going to get him regardless of what happens with the athorities.
PMC
April 30th, 2010
9:57 am
If that’s the case than Weems is either back to the practice squad or cut.
Big Al
April 30th, 2010
9:57 am
If we can stay healthy, we’ll be damn good! Only team in Atlanta that gives me hope right now.
Mike is Back
April 30th, 2010
10:09 am
DLed, I’m for these cats to make a ton of noise in training camp. Sean Weatherspoon, Kerry Meier , and Dominique Franks.
BigTimeTECHFan
April 30th, 2010
10:13 am
Any chance of Sidbury starting at LDE and Beermen backing them both up?
6 TE’s in camp seems like a lot, any chance that a veteren get released befor camp?
Wow, 4 pretty nice CB’s – That will be the battle to watch in camp. Who get’s the stating spot along side D Robinson.
N
April 30th, 2010
10:22 am
Can’t believe you didn’t put kick-off duties so that you could list Beer-man in the depth.
Very interested to follow the three-way kicker battle. Maybe do a segment highlighting them and it when it heats up?
Also, you clowns need to lay off Baker, Moore, and Jerry about injuries. I think TD’s strategy is/was smart. Pick up excellent players at a value spot for … wait for it … the long term. Not just one season of impact. Like DLed said, Moore would have been top 10 if he came out his Junior year. We got him in the second. He’s going to be good. Just give him a chance. A chance to … you know, actually play. If any of those three players are injured for the majority of three seasons, you can start complaining about it, but until then, the choices were sound investments in long term stocks. That’s what you want (well, if you want a team in the playoffs each year — which I do).
Season Ticket holder
April 30th, 2010
10:22 am
Osi Umenyiora is not happy in NY, he is 28 years old. He can immediately help John Abraham. Why not package Jamaal Anderson and get this deal done??? The Falcons can send a message to the NFC south that they are serious about winning with this upgrade at DE. Far too long the fan has settled for mediocre play from Jamaal Anderson and we have NOT aided John Abraham. He needs the teams support!!!! Please get this done!!!!!! The fans deserve better than 9-7 each year.
D. Orlando Ledbetter
April 30th, 2010
10:24 am
SirReal — Thanks.
South Ga Dawg — Need to get an update. League expected to act before training camp, but we do need a case update.
BigTimeTECHFan — I think you have the enter TEs so you can give Gonzalez a rest to keep him fresh. I think it’s Williams if he’s healthy. Grimes and Owens did play well down the stretch.
JR
April 30th, 2010
10:25 am
i’ll show my ignorance: what is a LS?
ryan
April 30th, 2010
10:27 am
If the Falcons go after OSI and Roy E. Williams i think the Falcons will make the playoffs.
Cherry
April 30th, 2010
10:28 am
Hi, there! Please don’t publish this – if you can remind DL but DT Jonathan Babineaux’s name if shortened is JON or BABS (NOT JOHN). Thanks! Cherry
Section242
April 30th, 2010
10:54 am
I think you misssed Vance Walker as other DT and Coy Wire as other LB and probably a few others.
I wish we had used a 6th or 7th pick on a K. I am not impressed with what is currently on roster.
JJB
April 30th, 2010
10:57 am
When numerous outside sources and fans state that Anderson was a 1st round flop–why is it that people think that we can “package” him to some other team? They will merely wait until he is cut, and then sign him dirt cheap if they really want him.
robertussen
April 30th, 2010
11:02 am
@jr long snapper
truth
April 30th, 2010
11:07 am
Oh no…….the armchair GM’s are at it again. I’m sure the big boys running the show knows what and who it takes to win games and get into the playoffs.
ROHOHO
April 30th, 2010
11:08 am
Bush was blamed for not being prepared for Katrina, why is Obama not being blamed for not being prepared for the oil spill??
Chucktown 38
April 30th, 2010
11:09 am
YES YES yeees this is the year the Falcons finally dump Shock for good.
truth
April 30th, 2010
11:10 am
Again…….why would it take some other teams has beens to get us into the playoffs when the Falocns were (in a few games) a field goal away from an 11-5 season and a trip to the playoffs.
Come on use the knoggin.
Chucktown 38
April 30th, 2010
11:10 am
ROHOHO, just think about why. I know you know why.
truth
April 30th, 2010
11:13 am
and why forget the many key injuries we had. go back and look and the 1st of the season and see how Abe was able to get to the QB when Jerry was in. Come on, the Dolphine’s game when Abe was handing it to Long did not we think “holy cow Abe is gonna be sack crazy this year.”
WE DON’T NEED WHAT OTHER TEAMS ARE THROWING IN THE TRASH CAN!!!
DJ
April 30th, 2010
11:16 am
OUCH! I like everything TD has done since he’s been here however your framework seems to indicate that the major problem from 2009 won’t be addressed. So, 2010 looks good as long as we are not decimated by injuries.
If Spoon can handle NFL tight ends he will take the SLB spot – we will probably never hear that Tony Gonzales’ biggest contribution this year will be training this guy.
truth
April 30th, 2010
11:16 am
The Falcons orginization is finally building a team, we might as well get use to it.
DOL Student
April 30th, 2010
11:18 am
Could you write some AJC articles to explain some football language we hear all the time. For example, explaining 1, 3, or 4 technique for the DL (does one DT need to be more athletic than the other DL?). Tampa 2 pass coverage (is this what the Falcons use?). Other common terms. Thanks!
Hamp
April 30th, 2010
11:22 am
TD said that coach smith told JA to gain weight to get more snaps at DT. Yeah we did not get our beloved pass rushing DE out of him. But to give up on someone who is an ox and is not even 25 is crazy. Dude will be a Beast at DT by next year. Bet it up!!!
I am as disappointed as all of you are that he did not work out a DE after spending an 8 but be patient if he has not been cut yet it means that brighter minds than us think the dude has potential.
falconfan4eternity
April 30th, 2010
11:22 am
The Falcons never take enough chances. Like a gentleman said above its no reason we shouldnt be going after Osi U from the Giants, JA98 has been killing us for years not making plays. Ive been seeing teams inviting Darren Sharper to there facilities Falcons hello we need a game changing safety you shoulda been few of the many teams trying to steal him. Lets look at the draft, theres no reson we shouldnt of picked up Dez Bryant and get rid of mediocre Jenkins. We need to start taking more chances, especially in ayear where thers no cap!!!!
truth
April 30th, 2010
11:32 am
falconfan4etenity……..it’s comments like that that make me glad we do not have you as a GM.
Why would you want an AGEING safety? So he’s been invited…..so then why has he not been given a contract? The Falcons are building a team through the draft so we as fans will have a team to be proud of for years to come. Have you heard of the Patriots? Ok……that’s what our GM and coach is doing in Atlanta. Bring in “big names” year in and year out don’t build a successful team……see Dallas they have proved that for years.
Jeff
April 30th, 2010
11:45 am
This chart clearly shows the need for a good back up RB and WR, which we passed on, there are quite a few available FA oout there? We need to go get them.
The G
April 30th, 2010
11:50 am
Season Ticket Holder: Fans deserve better than 9-7 every year? It wasn’t that long ago all Falcon fans were begging for a 9-7 season every year! Your very statement proves that this organization is on the right track.
Hamp
April 30th, 2010
11:51 am
WE DON’T OR DIDN’T NEED DEZ BRYANT THE DRAFT IS OVER HE IS ON ANTOTHER TEAM GET OVER IT!
If you looked at our roster and thought that bryant was a greater need than Spoon than share with us what you are smoking so we can lose what little knowledge we have about football and become the quality of couch GM you are. It is ridicilous to keep calling for bryant. I wanted Graham also but that is life. Other than graham there is no question Spoon was the right pick for our scheme.
Hamp
April 30th, 2010
11:56 am
Cheese and crackers! I don’t understand what sport some of you are watching. It is mind blowing! Some of the comments on this blog.
chc4
April 30th, 2010
11:58 am
Our safety depth is scary.
blord
April 30th, 2010
11:59 am
ROHOHO
I think you hit the wrong message board. The only Bush we need to talk about here is Rafael Bush and the only reason we should discuss Obama here is if he is going to replace Jenkins as the #2 WR.
what
April 30th, 2010
12:03 pm
I love Spoon n Bush.
truth
April 30th, 2010
12:03 pm
GO FALCONS!!!!!
truth
April 30th, 2010
12:09 pm
I understand that it’s hard to trust this organization after all that has happened since it’s conception, but trust me they know what they are doing.
Row 3
April 30th, 2010
12:14 pm
blord..Thats too funny!
DDawgDavis
April 30th, 2010
12:55 pm
Orlando, any word on MMA training with Randy Couture?? Glazer is blowing the Falcons up with this training he has Kroy and Sidbury on. Sounds like it should pay off huge and might explain why the Falcons shy’ed away from a DE. Jared Allen did the same training.
Also, any chance we sign a vet? We got a youth movement, but another strong voice with Pete and others would be great.
waynester
April 30th, 2010
1:01 pm
truth is on a roll here today–amen..
hamp is right on and
the G has really got it figured out…
Jeff, don’t worry–we picked up a couple of excellent WRs and another fresh RB in the draft and now have capable depth at both positions. Refer back to the G above and smile…
BIGDAwgfan
April 30th, 2010
1:05 pm
I like to talk about bush with anyone that will listen.
what!
April 30th, 2010
2:00 pm
Dawg fans are not capable of speaking bushanies.
DawgDad
April 30th, 2010
2:04 pm
Health, health, health. If they stay reasonably healthy this team is going to light some fireworks!
Depth, depth, depth. It’s now there at most positions, though still a bit green in places.
Character, character, character. Not a single person on this team jumps out as a “me” kind of guy ahead of the team.
Wins, wins, wins. These should pile up.
Nice going, AB! You have built the quality organization you dreamed of for Atlanta, and we appreciate it!
Falconaddict
April 30th, 2010
2:27 pm
If Franks is your returner, I’m guessing Weems gets cut. I can’t imagine they’d carry more than five receivers. The Wolfe kid looks interesting but probably needs to beat out Finneran or end up on the practice squad. My money’s on Finn.
truth
April 30th, 2010
2:29 pm
Preach it DawgDad!!!
I have been a fan since 1982 and let me tell ya I abd many others are loving this moment in our teams history.
Sorry but bandwagon fans don’t know where we are coming from and I hope they never have to from this point on.
Drew
April 30th, 2010
2:30 pm
peterson is the backup. nicholas had better stats last year. and he is faster, way faster. spoon will start game 1 like lofton. other than that the def looks pretty stout. if they stay healthy we make it to the playoffs, maybe even the super bowl. matty ice is going to have a breakout year. they will give the ball to snelling more, along with turner instead of headfirst norwood. also, an offense with 3 to 4 WR sets with douglas white and meier, and tony in the middle… wow, almost sounds like the colts unstoppable offense with wayne garcson collie and clark, but we have the better running game. i hope this all comes true or this draft looks bad for the brass.
Delbert D.
April 30th, 2010
2:36 pm
D-Led – How many unique names are on the 3-deep?
Big Fan
April 30th, 2010
2:54 pm
LDE – 1. Kroy Biermann, 2. Chauncey Davis, 3. Jamaal Anderson
A former first round pick from three years ago is number 3 on the depth chart behind Biermann who was pick in the later rounds of the NFL draft. Go figure. Jamaal Anderson = one hit wonder in the SEC to Falcons drafting Anderson on potential to NFL Bust!!!
Anderson robbed the Falcon with potential. Hell he did not have to use a Ski Mask to pull off this job.
JJBWgsu
April 30th, 2010
3:13 pm
Truth… your speaking the truth.
falconfan4eternity… Please dont ever refer to Darren Sharper as an “game changing safety” again, thanks
Im really excited about this team! Ive been a season ticket holder for two years now, and with a team like this i know I’ll be one for years to come!
Go Birds!!!
SKYROCK
April 30th, 2010
3:25 pm
Hey D.Led, kinda curious why Falcons never ran screen play’s with the running game we have.(Norwood when healthy,lol). Do you think we could see more of that this year. Seems like a great play to run in certain situations. Looking forward to start of the season. Like the depth also!! Thanks
allycks
April 30th, 2010
3:32 pm
This looks great. For once a Falcons team is starting to get depth at almost every position. Dimitroff and Smith are the kind of serious and open minded men you’d want running the business. It looks like they’re building a long-term winner.
steve
April 30th, 2010
3:41 pm
Justin Blalock will get cut after training camp, I believe rookie Mike Johnson will win the LG spot.
Joe Hawley will beat out Brett Romberg for the backup C position and sit behind McClure for another yr.
Sean Weatherspoon will beat out Mike Peterson who lost a step late in the season.
The starting SS battle will be the most intriguing, last years William Moore up against Erick Coleman. Moore had first round talent, I’m excited to see what happens in camp.
Here are my candidates that are on the roster bubble: G – Justin Blalock; WR – Brian Finneran; CB – Brian Williams; DE/DT – Jamaal Anderson
Coop
April 30th, 2010
3:54 pm
Projected opening day starters:
OFFNESE
QB – Matt Ryan
RB – Michael Turner
FB – Ovie Mughelli
WR – Roddy White
WR – Michael Jenkins
TE – Tony Gonzalez
LT – Sam Baker
LG – Justin Blalock
C – Todd McClure
RG – Harvey Dahl
RT – Tyson Clabo
DEFENSE
RDE – John Abraham
DT – Corey Peters
DT – Peria Jerry
LDE – Kroy Biermann
WLB – Michael Peterson
MLB – Curtis Lofton
SLB – Sean Weatherspoon
RCB – Chris Owens
FS – Thomas DeCoud
SS – Williams Moore
LCB – Dunta Robinson
SPECIALS
KR – Dominique Franks
PR – Dominique Franks
P – Michael Koenen
PK – Garrett Lindholm
LS – Joe Zelenka
Jay212033
April 30th, 2010
4:15 pm
One guy that might get a look at KR/PR is Tim Buckley this kid is an awesome athlete and has terrific vision. I see him as being a Josh Cribbs type player.
Jay212033
April 30th, 2010
4:19 pm
Also Ryan Wolfe looks far better as a receiving option than Weems, Finn and Meier. This kid runs good routes, has awesome hands and is a good blocker. He’s a sleeper for the 3rd/4th receiving option.
Mr. Turnip-Green Jeans
April 30th, 2010
4:38 pm
I though Matt Bryant looked pretty good at kicker. Strong leg too.
Row 3
April 30th, 2010
5:04 pm
I’m with you on Matt Bryant, but a little training camp competition does the Soul good.
falcon fan
April 30th, 2010
5:24 pm
I agree with sirReal, Give snelling the #2 spot. I think he deserves a shot after last seasons performance. Pound the ball and find other ways to use Norwoods talent. Line him up as a slot reciever, or in the wildcat. I would love to see turner and snelling along with ovie in the backfield in a power running formation and just cram the ball down peoples throat. The old wishbone….that would be sweet!
chris taylor
April 30th, 2010
7:38 pm
Definately Falcons Fan, line them up just like you said in a double tight end set too. Block and shock tactic. You could also sneak a little play action out of it with Gonzalez, 2nd TE Peek/Zinger etc., and Snelling out of the back field. Thats 3 recievers and 2 RB/FB’s to pick up the run blitz on an obvious “You’re gonna eat this ball and like it!” play.
Pat
April 30th, 2010
7:47 pm
bierman is also the 3rd string PK
Origional Fan
April 30th, 2010
11:47 pm
I still think Meier was drafted to add a little bulk ( he’s not far off now) and take over fo TG in a year or two. Just speculating.
theriddler
May 1st, 2010
6:23 am
Not much chatter about our weak receiving corp. Gonzo/age WR/no depth. IMO you can’t have enough quality WR’s in this current style of pro ball. I’m old school and I don’t believe Run/D wins championships anymore. You’ve gotta throw it. I’ll buy into Douglas after a quality year back, but not until. I think it is a glaring weakness.
ugakev
May 1st, 2010
8:46 am
Two players i look forward to seeing and can really boost us this year. Harry douglas and dunta robinson
MikeT
May 1st, 2010
10:55 am
So basically, the Falcons drafted 0 starters. Bravo.
Wesley Brown
May 1st, 2010
11:57 am
I am excited about the Falcons and think we are building a perenial contender.This is the year to learn what caliber Matt Ryan will be, and I say he will be very good.
Our offense is going to excel and I think the table is set for a very good year for the Falcons. Reasonably weak schedule, Ryan’s break out year I hope, and the defense could be much improved with Jerry, Moore and Robinson hoepfully injury free and in the mix.
ROHOHO, those that divide us prosper. Think about what the politicians would feel if you and I were both outside their windows at the same time. Go Falcons. I can’t wait.
Wesley Brown
May 1st, 2010
12:00 pm
theriddler, you make a good point. IF, Turner stays healthy we can hide those weaknesses with Gonzalez and White. Maybe Douglas will be the possesion receiver we need. Receivers are a weakness no doubt. I think we can work around it though.
waynester
May 1st, 2010
12:36 pm
ROHOHO and Wesley Brown
The Falcons saw that what they’d been doing from the beginning wasn’t working and totally changed their approach to fixing the problem. The American people need to do the same. We’ve been trying the same 2 parties over and over since the beginning and now have to totally change our approach to solve the problem. Affixing blame is the easy part, ROHOHO–fixing the problem will require abandoning our old thinking and trying something new.
chris taylor
May 1st, 2010
3:31 pm
Can’t hide weakness’ anymore. The seasoon’s getting longer and tougher. Look at our drafted linemens starting records. One set records for starts. Drafted players weak spots are all coachable areas. Spoon will start, Peters will see heavy rotation at least the first 4 games.
Chris in Decatur
May 1st, 2010
9:09 pm
@Season Ticket holder… Why on God’s green earth would the Giants trade Osi for JA98? So what if he is unhappy. I’ve been hearing that tons of playing are unhappy EVERY YEAR. We have JA98 for one more year. He’s relatively cheap now, since he is on the back end of his rookie contract. There’s no reason to give up on him now. He’ll be a flex DT/DE for this team, and that’s it… Get over it.
Scott Anderson
May 1st, 2010
10:47 pm
Things are so much better here since Terrance left.
Where did he end up ?
Nice job D Led
you are a source of fair minded dialog
falconfanintitantown
May 2nd, 2010
2:10 am
I have been a falcons fan since 1988. I finally beleive wholeheartedly in this organization. They have a plan and are sticking to it-(it’s working by the way,BTB winnig seasons) No more washed up overpaid names-Pierce Holt,Eric Dickerson,etc… This team is finally going in the right direction, let’s be patient and be thankful we have people running this team that Care About and Know what it takes to win. FALCONS$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ ARE MONEY THIS YEAR BABEE
Terrance More Racism Please
May 2nd, 2010
2:14 am
“Things are so much better here since Terrance left.
Where did he end up ?”
You can find that degenerate racist p.o.s. still spouting his garbage on another sports website. Out of respect to DOL since he’s earned it I won’t mention names. Google will help you find his current lunatic ravings if you wish.
jamie c
May 2nd, 2010
9:03 am
how about bringing john henderson in here for a rotation in the dt spots? did anyone else notice that his performance started sagging when coach smith came to the falcons? he’d def be better than trey lewis, vance walker and such…
outside of that, i LOVE what the falcons are doing. there’s always going to be a position or two that we are a little weak in, but we’re trying to figure out who the best 2nd and 3rd stringers are. our starters are stout, and some of our 2nd stringers are starters on 1/2 the teams in the league.
and i agree with a lot of you – snelling deserves to be the 2nd r/b into the game every week. norwood is the best at running outside and tripping over his own feet. so if that’s our gameplan, lets go with him. but if we want someone to barrell straight ahead, sidestep a couple guys and always get positive yardage we should have snelling in there after turner.
Rod
May 2nd, 2010
9:37 am
Ledbetter, Will Shockley be able to compete for one of the two backup QB spots?
The Falcon Guy
May 2nd, 2010
6:11 pm
GO FALCONS
The Falcon Guy
May 2nd, 2010
6:11 pm
GO FALCONS! :/
Let's go
May 2nd, 2010
7:27 pm
Michael Palmer will be the back up tight end and after a couple of years behind Tony G he should be the starter for many years to come. Count on it.
Vick Supporter
May 2nd, 2010
7:55 pm
http://www.csnphilly.com/05/02/10/Vick-More-Comfortable-in-Second-Year-wit/landing.html?blockID=227408&feedID=704
waynester
May 2nd, 2010
7:56 pm
Let’s go
Hope you’re right–alot of the 2011 drafts already have us taking a TE or DE #1….
toni 57
May 2nd, 2010
8:12 pm
in the paper look easy and strong team but will see when the camp beagin and later in the season.i’m confident that this
team will go deep in the playoff opefully in the superbowl. whitout injury.
Can Johnson Take a Starting Guard Spot? | Atlanta Falcons: Bird Cage
May 2nd, 2010
10:24 pm
[...] AJC Falcons Staff Writer D.Orlando Ledbetter on Falcons Depth Chart [...]
J-MAN
May 3rd, 2010
7:56 am
D Led can you give me a blog on any possible remaining Trades, free agents,,,,,,, I wanna hear something of Henderson and T.O. and see if we trade for a DE and Rookie camps, like to hear who is standing out……If you can give me my daily Falcons fix id appreciate it
Case Quarter
May 3rd, 2010
8:48 am
Maurice Lucas was left off the DL list… at least as an other…
fatboy
May 3rd, 2010
9:28 am
coop, I’m like you i really like Chris Owens, the kid has great speed and can cover. i think he is going to be a really good corner. he got turned around a few times but his speed helped him get right back into tight coverage. once his knowledge level comes up to his skill level, he’ll be a good one.
and the film ive watched on the UNLV reciever Wolfe looks really good, looks like a wes
fatboy
May 3rd, 2010
9:29 am
wes welker type reciever
Mel Kiper
May 3rd, 2010
11:28 am
“Dominique Franks is projected win return duties” you are a pathetic, learn to proof read moron
TuckDAWG
May 3rd, 2010
12:48 pm
spoon will win the job the nichollas had and on third down it will probably be nichollas and spoon
carl51023
May 3rd, 2010
7:54 pm
I think we should have picked up Colt McCoy instead of Corey Peters. We need a better back-up…
Should Weatherspoon Start Day 1? | Blogging Dirty | An Atlanta Falcons Blog
May 4th, 2010
2:01 am
[...] it got me thinking how the Falcons should use their first round draft pick, Sean Weatherspoon. D. Orlando Ledbetter has the Mizzou star beginning the year rotating at both outside linebacker positions with starters Mike Peterson and Stephen [...]
GMAN
May 4th, 2010
8:00 am
i think this will be sam bakers last year starting at left tackle once clabo leaves next season our first pick will be that left tackle we need, and theyll move sam over to right tackle where he belongs, hell be strong there, so have no fear, things are moving right along. we dont have to get that DE till the second round because next year beerman & sid take the reins
GMAN
May 4th, 2010
8:12 am
dont worry about william moore, hes got a fire under him now that spoon is here. theirs nothing he’d like better than being back with one of his old buds, hell do what ever it takes to stay healthy. and spoon will push him to. i tell you this D is taking shape, and dont be surprised to see corey peters right away. hes a beast, hes underrated but believe this. dont be surprised if he and jerry dont take the reins next season, babs make have sealed his doom. hopefully not but you know TD. bullshxxt takes a walk round here.
A.R.S.C.M.D.
May 4th, 2010
10:48 am
Coop, OFFNESE??? Just kidding.
Anal Retentive Spell Checkers Must Die.
Jerious Norwood #1 kick off return man.
Paddy O
May 5th, 2010
6:02 pm
waynester: this is an old comment, but I agree – do NOT vote for a candidate UNLESS they advocate the adoption of a “balanced budget” amendment to the consititution and require that NAFTA either be repealed or amended so it only applies to foreign nations who have duplicate laws as we (environmental & labor). I recommend the Objective Government Party.
Paddy O
May 5th, 2010
6:05 pm
Don’t forget Peerless Price & Ashley Lelie; Terence Moore is the most sincere form of crap that there is in the journalism commode.
Slim body
May 21st, 2010
12:01 pm
Really it is very interesting for me to read the blog. Thanx for it. I like such topics and everything that is connected to them. I definitely want to read more soon.